Wise Investments: Investing in YOU!

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"Self-care is giving the world the best of you, instead of what's left of you." – Katie Reed

How's it going my friend? Do you feel like your life is a little crazy these days? If so, you are certainly not alone. Life in general seems to have become far too busy for everyone. Our calendars are often plastered with so many commitments and appointments that even looking at the schedule can make us tired.

Balance is something that many of us are truly lacking. Often when we get busier, we can fall into the trap of poor self-care and it can really take its toll on us.

To be effective in our workplaces, families and society in general it is so important to take time for ourselves, to be the best we can be in all aspects. We truly cannot pour from an empty cup. We need to make a conscious effort to order our lives with the inclusion of activities that edify us. “Me” time looks different for everyone, and that is what makes us all unique and interesting. 

Here’s my thoughts on six things I do regularly to lift my spirits and keep my life in order when it gets a bit hectic. Maybe you will enjoy implementing these things into your life as well. 

Find a great hobby or interest

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Taking time for ourselves can come in many forms. Some of us need to find new hobbies or interests. What do you enjoy that excites you and is a healthy, enjoyable option? Blogging has become a real keen interest of mine and I find it so rewarding. It keeps my writing skills sharp and allows me to contact people in a way that was never possible in the past. It has also presented me with a platform that never existed before, and I have met so many incredible people through my blogging experience.   It is so amazing! Is there a class you could take or a new skill you could learn? The possibilities are truly endless!

Schedule a nap

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Taking time for ourselves may mean getting more rest. Many of us are walking around sleep deprived and we may not even know it. Coffee can help, but it only gets you so far, believe me.

Recently I got a diagnosis that FINALLY gave me some answers to why I was so tired all. the. time. I found out I have sleep apnea and I actually have one of the most severe cases that my doctor has ever seen. Things are getting better now that I am on a CPAP machine, but regardless I must tell you, I LOVE to nap! It is truly one of my favourite things.

Funny how when I was younger, naps were something I totally dreaded. Not now! For me, it is a chance to forget about stress for a bit, and feel refreshed from the demands of a hectic day. I often take a nap right after work.  I always set my alarm so I do not oversleep and then when I wake, I feel much more ready to take on the second part of my day! 

Get moving

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Exercise is a fantastic way to put yourself on top of the priority list once again. Honestly, I enjoy walking, working out at the gym and recently have added Aquafit classes to my schedule. My motivation is inconsistent at times, but I have made a decision to get back to more regular exercising.

When I am faithful with my exercise routine, I feel so much better physically and emotionally. The key is to find what type of exercise you most enjoy and make a commitment to it. You will be so glad you did. 

Candy Crush anyone?

A little mindless activity can be very beneficial as well. Admittedly, I am a big Candy Crush fan and I do enjoy Facebook and seeing what everyone it up to. As mentioned balance is everything, yet games and social media can be great as long as they are used in the right amount.

Bonding with besties

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Spending time with friends and family that encourages you is crucial. Make an effort to call a good friend and get together or have a nice phone conversation with a best friend. This can be just what is needed to put you back on track. Those that love us most let us be ourselves. Whether we need to vent, require a listening ear, or just need to have a good laugh, friends help us with that. True friends help us also get perspective, feel supported and get advice with problem solving.  

Power of prayer

Taking time for myself means spending time in prayer and asking God to direct my days and help me with all my problems. I bring to him all my concerns both big and small and in return I feel refreshed, lighter and so much better.

I pray that I may operate in his strength as I know that I was  never made to walk this life on our own. His strength is perfect and will keep me going and moving forward even on the hardest days. 

You are so amazing and are meant to thrive, not just exist. All work and no play can lead to an incredibly stressful life for all of us.

I want the best for you and taking time for yourself is not selfish, but extremely healthy and necessary.

Make sure in your corner of the world, self-care happens on a regular basis in the ways that work for you . You will feel empowered, encouraged and become a much healthier and happier person in the end. 

Until next time, 
~ Dana

Matthew 11:28-30: Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” 

Little Lesson Learned: Take care of yourself. You are so worth it!

Author

​Dana Romualdi is a Canadian elementary teacher, social worker, blogger, author, and speaker. She has a passion for helping others and spreading much-needed encouragement. She lives in Canada with her husband and two grown children. When she is not working in the classroom or writing, she enjoys drinking coffee, watching Netflix and reading great books.

Feel free to reach out to Dana
​at: [email protected]

Copyright: © 2024 littlelessonslearnedbydana, 2nd edition, 2014 first edition entitled Me Time
​(Dana Romualdi) 
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Tags: self-care, take care of yourself, full cup, invest in you